Meaning: The quote "It is godlike ever to think on something beautiful and on something new" is attributed to the ancient Greek philosopher Democritus. This quote encapsulates the essence of creativity and the pursuit of knowledge, reflecting the philosopher's belief in the power of thought and the human capacity for innovation. Democritus was a pre-Socratic philosopher, often referred to as the "laughing philosopher," who is best known for his theory of atomism and his contributions to early atomic theory. His philosophical ideas centered on the nature of reality, the universe, and the human experience, and his quote reflects his appreciation for the aesthetic and intellectual aspects of human existence.

Democritus was born in Abdera, Thrace, in ancient Greece around 460 BCE. He was a contemporary of the renowned philosopher Heraclitus and is often associated with his philosophical rival, Leucippus, with whom he is credited with developing the theory of atomism. Democritus is regarded as one of the key figures in the development of ancient Greek philosophy and science, and his ideas have had a lasting impact on Western thought.

The quote "It is godlike ever to think on something beautiful and on something new" underscores Democritus's emphasis on the divine nature of creative and innovative thinking. By using the term "godlike," he suggests that contemplating beauty and novelty elevates the human mind to a higher, almost divine, level of consciousness. This notion aligns with the broader philosophical tradition in ancient Greece, which often sought to understand the nature of divinity, human existence, and the pursuit of wisdom.

In the context of Democritus's atomistic philosophy, the quote can be interpreted as an invitation to explore the fundamental building blocks of reality in both a material and intellectual sense. The pursuit of "something beautiful" may refer to the aesthetic appreciation of the world and the search for harmony and elegance in nature, while the pursuit of "something new" may signify the constant quest for knowledge and understanding, particularly in relation to the underlying structure of the universe.

Furthermore, the quote evokes the idea of continuous intellectual and creative endeavor. Democritus's emphasis on "something new" suggests that the pursuit of knowledge is an ongoing process, one that requires constant exploration and discovery. This aligns with his atomistic theory, which posits that the universe is composed of indivisible, unchangeable particles in constant motion, perpetually generating new configurations and forms.

The quote also carries implications for the broader human experience. By encouraging the contemplation of beauty and novelty, Democritus advocates for a life enriched by both aesthetic appreciation and intellectual curiosity. This perspective aligns with the ancient Greek concept of eudaimonia, or human flourishing, which emphasizes the pursuit of virtue, knowledge, and personal fulfillment. In this sense, the quote can be seen as a call to embrace the transformative power of creativity and intellectual exploration as integral components of a meaningful and fulfilling life.

In conclusion, Democritus's quote "It is godlike ever to think on something beautiful and on something new" encapsulates the philosopher's reverence for the divine nature of creative and innovative thinking. It reflects his belief in the transformative power of contemplation, the pursuit of knowledge, and the appreciation of beauty as essential aspects of the human experience. This quote serves as a reminder of the enduring relevance of Democritus's philosophical insights and the timeless significance of his contributions to ancient Greek thought.